Calling all Apple fans! Apple Watch Series 9, 10, and Ultra 2 users in Canada now have access to a groundbreaking new feature: sleep apnea detection. Here’s what you can expect and how to make the most of this exciting new feature.
Why is this a big deal?
Sleep apnea is a serious condition where your breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. Left untreated, sleep apnea can significantly increase your risk of several serious health conditions, including diabetes, heart disease, stroke, and more. Up to a staggering 90% of sufferers remain undiagnosed, so this new feature will certainly help raise awareness of the critically underdiagnosed sleep disorder.
The Apple Watch’s new feature uses advanced sensors to monitor your sleep and identify potential breathing disturbances. Users can export a PDF report with a chart of their breathing disturbances for conversations with their healthcare providers. While it’s a significant step forward in sleep health tech, it’s important to remember that the Apple Watch cannot diagnose sleep apnea.
Here’s what the Apple Watch can (and can’t) do:
Identify potential sleep apnea
The Apple Watch will monitor your sleep and provide insights on breathing disruptions and possible sleep apnea.
Diagnose sleep apnea
Unfortunately, the Apple Watch cannot definitively diagnose sleep apnea.
What if you suspect sleep apnea?
If you experience symptoms like loud snoring, gasping for air during sleep, or excessive daytime sleepiness, or if the Apple Watch suggests potential sleep apnea, your next step should be a sleep study.
What is a sleep study?
A sleep study is a detailed overnight test that tracks your sleep and breathing. This allows doctors to assess your sleep patterns, breathing, and oxygen levels. Unlike the Apple Watch and other similar wearables, a sleep study provides a comprehensive picture of your sleep health and will be interpreted by a sleep doctor who can ultimately provide your sleep apnea diagnosis and recommend prescription for treatment, like CPAP or oral appliances.
Sleep apnea testing
Book your at-home sleep study today!
If you or your Apple Watch suspect sleep apnea, don’t wait! Book a sleep study today and take the first step towards better health and a better night’s sleep